This car phone holder has so many options, you can use it on the dashboard, windshield or the air vent. It is super easy to set up and get started. The back button on the bottom of the holder when pushed opens the arms on the side so that your phone can fit in it, then just push them closed and they keep your phone nice and snug. I used the air vent holder first, this was an awesome option for my use, the windshield works very well but the dashboard works even better. To each his own, just depends on how you use your car. I really like that it gives me options. I like to change up things sometimes.